Lisle Yarn Explained
In brief: Lisle yarn, also called cotton lisle or fil d'Ecosse, is a finely spun, tightly twisted mercerised cotton that produces exceptional lustre and durability. Named after Lille in France, it uses long-staple Egyptian Mako cotton of 30 to 38mm staple length and 12 to 14 micron fineness. Two strands are given extra twist per inch and combined into a compact solid thread, then double mercerised for a silk-like gloss.
What is lisle yarn?
Lisle yarn, also known as cotton lisle or fil d'Ecosse, meaning Scottish thread, is a finely spun and tightly twisted mercerised cotton famous for its lustre and durability. It takes its name from Lille in France. The raw material is premium: long-staple Egyptian Mako cotton, with a staple length of 30 to 38mm and a fineness of 12 to 14 microns. Starting with such fine, long fibres is the foundation of lisle's quality.
How lisle is made
The construction is what sets lisle apart. Two strands of cotton are each given extra twist per inch, then combined into a compact, solid thread. This tight twist eliminates surface fuzz and gives the yarn its strength and smoothness. The yarn is then double mercerised, a treatment that creates a silk-like gloss and removes rough surface fibres. The combination of fine cotton, extra twist and double mercerisation produces a yarn that performs far above ordinary cotton.
Why lisle feels like silk
Double mercerisation permanently alters the cotton fibre's cross-section, taking it from collapsed and ribbon-like to nearly circular. A round fibre reflects light evenly, which is what creates the silk-like lustre. At the same time the tight twist eliminates surface fuzz, so the yarn looks clean and feels smooth. The result is superior strength, brilliant colour retention, and good resistance to shrinkage and pilling, all while breathing better than synthetic alternatives.
Lisle Yarn at OD's Designer Clothing
We stock lisle cotton knitwear from Gran Sasso, made with Italian craftsmanship using premium yarns for a refined, silk-like finish. It is ideal for summer knitwear and premium polo shirts, where you want the look of luxury with the comfort and breathability of cotton. Visit the store to feel why lisle commands its reputation.